The Importance of a Real Estate Agent

Buying or selling a home is not for the faint of heart as it is quite daring. Many think that the ease of access to information throughout the internet negates the need for a realtor. However this cannot be further from the truth as you need someone to guide you throughout this courageous experience.

Below are 5 reasons that a Real Estate Professional is an absolute essential aspect of this process. As the market continues to make a comeback the necessity of a Real Estate Professional is even stronger because of higher mortgage interest rates & home prices.
1. I have mounds of paperwork- what do I do with it all?

As with most legal documents and sales, each state has its own unique rules and requirements for real estate transactions and contracts. Professionals within the real estate market are aware of all of this and can seamlessly explain each document in order to avoid any mistakes.
2. I found a house I love and want to own- I need help!

Research from the Orlando Regional REALTOR Association, shows that each successful real estate transaction has the possibility of requiring over 230 transactions- that’s a lot! With so much room for error or someone dropping the ball, it seems like the ideal time to have someone in your corner, who is an expert, making sure everything goes smoothly.
3. How much experience do you have in negotiating?

As you proceed to make an offer, please look at the number of individuals you will need to interact with in order to have a successful transaction. Most involve at least (11) different people- as you include buyers/sellers, realtors, inspectors, appraisers, mortgage brokers, etc. Do you have the expertise and time to truly interact well with each one?
4. How do you truly determine the worth of your current home?

The National Association of REALTORS shows the following, “the typical FSBO home sold for $184,000 compared to $230,000 among agent-assisted home sales.” That’s a huge difference! And, can put you in a very different position when looking for your next home and making an offer. Yet another reason having a real estate professional involved in your transaction is crucial.
5. How much do you really know about the current state of the market?

With the Internet and TV there is a lot of information available but how do you know what is accurate and what is true to your specific part of town? A realtor will help you sort through this information and develop a competitive listing price, as well as buy your dream home for the best price.

A true financial master, Dave Ramsey, shares this:
“When getting help with money, whether it’s insurance, real estate or investments, you should always look for someone with the heart of a teacher, not the heart of a salesman.”

Please, please make sure when determining who you are going to work with that you land on someone who is going to speak truth and have your best interest in mind throughout the entire process. Buying and selling a home is almost 100% of the time the biggest financial transaction you’ll undertake, why do it without an expert- a Real Estate Professional- guiding you through the entire process?